STUDENTS from Minehead Middle School and the town’s West Somerset Community College were among talented young chefs who took part in the district heat of an annual contest organised by Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland.

The event was held in the college and saw competitors enter from across Somerset and further afield, some as young as 11 years old, who were asked to prepare a two-course meal.

The winner of the heat was Freya Slade, aged 13, from Highbridge, with Jack Cawley, aged 16, from Dorchester, the runner-up.

The youngsters were given two hours and an £18 budget for ingredients to prepare a healthy meal, a challenge also aimed at teaching them skills in organisation as well as improving their ability to cope under pressure.

Rotary district youth lead Jane Gibbs said: “It is so inspiring to see so many talented young chefs excelling in a competitive environment.

“It really is encouraging that competitions like this are still running successfully and proving Rotary can be a real force in improving the futures of young people.”

Rotary Young Chef is a well-established event which has supported the careers of several young cooks and is part of a programme of nationwide annual competitions for young people aged from 11 to 17 years.

Others include young musician, young artist, young writer, and young photographer.

The district winners go on to a cluster final in Bristol next month, from where the winners go to the national final, in Essex.

A Rotary spokesperson said: “These competitions are a great way for young people to be challenged in a fun and friendly environment.

“Rotary is committed to offering them opportunities to unlock their potential, develop their skills, and broaden their horizons.”

Anybody who wants to be involved in any Rotary youth event should email Jane Gibbs at [email protected].